Description About the Role: Based in Enderby, Leicester Head Office. We have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Footwear Technologist to join the Next Childrenswear team. When it comes to UK retail, it’s hard to find a company with a bigger focus on quality. Our loyal customer base comes back to us time and time again for our renowned quality products. For anyone in the Footwear technology field - this is the place to learn, to grow and to thrive. Reporting to the Technologist, you will support the whole footwear technology process from design concept to the customer; elevating quality is key in Next Childrenswear. -Developing the range; focusing on front end product development, driving technical innovation and product improvements whilst promoting collaborative and close working relationships with the product team and suppliers. Approving and progressing the range; delivering excellent quality standards, providing clear and concise written and verbal communication internally and externally; whilst managing supply base to meet expectations. -Responsibility for risk assessment, and requesting and analysing product test data, to ensure compliance with all performance, legal and safety standards. -Implementing Next policies and sustainability target. -Managing in season; reviewing product quality throughout season, auditing and utilising information to further improve quality. -Supporting the team to meet objectives, while managing critical path, workload and priorities. About You: A team player; you will have great people skills to communicate effectively within a multi functional team. Using your technical experience & exceptional eye for technical detail, you will be able to demonstrate an excellent understanding of footwear manufacturing, construction, fit and performance. You’ll show drive and initiative to generate and implement new ideas in your department. Your Team: The Childrenswear Technology team at NEXT has a wealth of knowledge and experience across territories. This is an ideal opportunity to show us what you can do and to also soak up all the knowledge of those around you. Sponsorship: Candidates wishing to apply who would require sponsorship for this role will be required to meet the Home Office sponsorship requirements. For further information please see: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa .